- Two undertrials charged under POCSO escaped from Srinagar's Central Jail
- The accused fled despite high-security measures at the Central Jail premises
- Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a manhunt and issued lookout notices
In a glaring security lapse that has raised serious questions over prison security, two undertrials facing charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act have escaped from the high-security Central Jail in Srinagar.
Confirming the jailbreak, a senior police officer said both the accused were lodged in the Central Jail in connection with separate POCSO cases and managed to give security personnel the slip and flee from the premises. Immediately after the escape came to light, Jammu and Kashmir Police issued lookout notices and launched a massive manhunt to catch them.
According to the lookout notices issued by Kashmir Zone Police on its official X handle, the accused have been identified as Mukhtar Ahmad Gujjar, son of Mohammad Rafiq Gujjar, resident of Sanglan, Chittergul, Anantnag, wanted in FIR No. 20/2026 registered at Police Station Soura under various sections of the BNS and sections 3 and 4 of the POCSO Act
The other accused has been identified as Farman Khan, son of Abdul Gani Khan, resident of Sadanpora, Rafiabad, wanted in FIR No. 19/2026 registered at Police Station Lar under various sections of the BNS and sections 3 and 4 (penetrative sexual assault) of the POCSO Act.
The police have made a fervent appeal to the general public to share any credible information regarding their whereabouts. The department has also announced a suitable reward for information leading to their arrest.
People having any information have been requested to contact the nearest police station or dial the emergency helpline number 112.
Meanwhile, further investigation is underway, and all efforts are being made to trace and apprehend the escapees at the earliest. Police have also initiated an internal inquiry to ascertain the reasons behind the security lapse that enabled the prisoners to flee from one of the most guarded jails in the Valley.
